If you love cozy Italian food that melts in your mouth, homemade gnocchi is your next kitchen obsession. These soft, pillowy dumplings—made from potatoes, ricotta, or even cauliflower—are pure comfort on a plate. Whether you like them smothered in creamy sauce, baked with cheese, or tossed with fresh herbs, there’s a perfect gnocchi dish for you.
In this guide, we’ll share 7 gnocchi recipes homemade that are easy, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress your family or dinner guests. From classic potato gnocchi to modern twists like spinach or sweet potato gnocchi, you’ll find inspiration for every craving.
What Is Gnocchi?
Gnocchi (pronounced NYO-kee) is a traditional Italian dumpling, typically made from potatoes, flour, and eggs. The word “gnocchi” comes from the Italian word nocca, meaning “knuckle,” referring to their small, rounded shape.
While potato gnocchi is the most common type, there are countless variations—some made with ricotta cheese, pumpkin, or semolina. The texture should be soft, light, and slightly chewy, perfect for soaking up any sauce.
Making gnocchi recipes homemade might sound intimidating, but it’s surprisingly simple with a few basic ingredients and the right technique.
How to Make Perfect Homemade Gnocchi
Before diving into the recipes, here are a few pro tips for mastering homemade gnocchi:
- Use starchy potatoes (like Russet or Yukon Gold) for fluffier dough.
- Don’t overwork the dough. Mix gently until just combined to avoid dense gnocchi.
- Boil until they float. When gnocchi rise to the top of the pot, they’re done.
- Pan-fry after boiling for crispy edges and added flavor.
- Toss immediately in sauce so they absorb the flavors while still hot.
Now, let’s explore seven of the best homemade gnocchi recipes that are both comforting and delicious.
1. Classic Potato Gnocchi with Butter and Sage
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds Russet potatoes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- Salt, to taste
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 fresh sage leaves
Instructions:
- Boil the potatoes until tender, then peel and mash them while still warm.
- Add flour, salt, and egg; mix until a soft dough forms.
- Roll into ropes, cut into 1-inch pieces, and shape using a fork.
- Boil the gnocchi until they float to the top, then transfer to a pan with melted butter and sage.
- Sauté for a minute, coat well, and serve hot.
This classic gnocchi recipe homemade is elegant in its simplicity—the butter and sage bring out the potato’s natural sweetness for a truly authentic Italian experience.
2. Ricotta Gnocchi with Creamy Garlic Sauce
If you want a lighter, fluffier version, ricotta gnocchi is your best friend. It’s softer than the potato version and cooks in minutes.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese (drained)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 egg yolk
- 1/2 cup flour
- Salt and pepper
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
- Combine ricotta, Parmesan, egg yolk, flour, salt, and pepper to form a soft dough.
- Shape and boil the gnocchi until they float.
- For the sauce, melt butter, sauté garlic, and add cream. Simmer until thickened.
- Toss the gnocchi in the sauce and sprinkle with Parmesan.
The result? Creamy, rich, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for a quick but elegant dinner.
3. Sweet Potato Gnocchi with Brown Butter and Parmesan
A slightly sweet, nutty twist on the classic, this sweet potato gnocchi recipe homemade pairs beautifully with brown butter and cheese.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium sweet potatoes
- 1 cup flour
- 1 egg
- Salt
- 3 tbsp butter
- Freshly grated Parmesan
Instructions:
- Roast sweet potatoes until soft, then mash.
- Add flour, egg, and salt, mixing into a dough.
- Cut into bite-sized pieces and boil.
- In a pan, melt butter until golden brown, then toss gnocchi in it.
- Finish with Parmesan and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
This dish balances the sweetness of the potato with the nuttiness of brown butter—a fall favorite that’s great year-round.
4. Spinach and Ricotta Gnocchi with Lemon Cream Sauce
For a touch of green and a burst of flavor, try this spinach gnocchi recipe homemade. The lemon cream sauce gives it a fresh, zesty lift.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup ricotta
- 1 cup cooked spinach (squeezed dry and chopped)
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 egg
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 cup cream
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Mix ricotta, spinach, flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Form dough and shape into gnocchi.
- Boil until they float, then toss in lemon cream sauce.
- Garnish with extra lemon zest and Parmesan.
It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for spring or summer dinners.
5. Cauliflower Gnocchi with Pesto Sauce
Looking for a low-carb option? Cauliflower gnocchi is a delicious, gluten-free twist that’s just as satisfying as the original.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium cauliflower (steamed and mashed)
- 1/2 cup cassava or almond flour
- 1 egg
- Salt
- 1/4 cup pesto (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
- Combine cauliflower, flour, egg, and salt to make dough.
- Shape and boil until floating.
- Toss with pesto and top with pine nuts and Parmesan.
This healthy gnocchi recipe proves you don’t need potatoes to enjoy the Italian classic. Perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners!
6. Baked Gnocchi with Mozzarella and Marinara
When you’re craving comfort food, this baked gnocchi recipe homemade hits the spot. Think of it as a hybrid between gnocchi and lasagna—gooey, cheesy, and irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan
- Fresh basil leaves
Instructions:
- Boil gnocchi until tender and drain.
- Mix with marinara sauce and layer in a baking dish.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan, then bake at 400°F for 15 minutes.
- Garnish with basil before serving.
The bubbly cheese and rich tomato sauce create the ultimate family-friendly Italian bake.
7. Gnocchi alla Sorrentina (Tomato, Basil, and Mozzarella)
Straight from the Amalfi Coast, Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a classic Italian comfort dish that combines simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Ingredients:
- 1 batch homemade potato gnocchi
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 ball fresh mozzarella
- Fresh basil
- Olive oil and salt
Instructions:
- Toss boiled gnocchi in tomato sauce and layer with mozzarella in a baking dish.
- Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
This dish embodies everything we love about Italian cooking—simple, fresh, and full of heart.
Tips for Storing and Reheating Homemade Gnocchi
- To refrigerate: Store cooked gnocchi in an airtight container with sauce for up to 3 days.
- To freeze: Place uncooked gnocchi on a tray, freeze until solid, then store in freezer bags. Boil straight from frozen—no need to thaw.
- To reheat: Warm in a skillet with butter or sauce to bring back that perfect texture.
What to Serve with Gnocchi
Homemade gnocchi pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and toppings. Here are a few ideas:
- Garlic bread or crusty Italian loaf
- Caprese salad
- Roasted vegetables (zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus)
- Grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein
- A glass of white wine or sparkling lemonade
Final Thoughts: Homemade Gnocchi Is Easier Than You Think
Making gnocchi recipes homemade isn’t just about cooking—it’s about creating a dish that feels like a warm hug. From traditional potato gnocchi to creative versions like spinach or cauliflower, these seven recipes show how versatile this Italian classic can be.
Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a family gathering, or a cozy weekend dinner, homemade gnocchi always brings comfort and joy to the table.